Laboratory Animal Resources

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The University of Montana recognizes the need for the judicious and ethical use of animals to fulfill its goal as being an educational and research center. LAR staff members are certified by the American Association for Laboratory Animal Science, and have had many years of experience caring for laboratory animals.

The University of Montana's Animal Care and Use Program has been accredited by the American Association for the Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International (AAALAC) since 1967. UM is proud to be one of the very first participants in this voluntary accreditation program which focuses on all aspects of the use and care of animals.

The Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) plays a key role in maintaining the University's strict adherence to relevant laws and guidelines pertaining to the use of live animals in research and education. The IACUC, through the protocol review process as outlined in the Public Health Service Policy on the Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals, upholds the most stringent laws concerning the use of animals.

An Animal Use Protocol (AUP) must be approved by the IACUC prior to the commencement of any research project using live animals. A copy of this approved form must be on file in the office of the IACUC Coordinator, (406) 243-6395, prior to the initiation of any such study. For research and/or instructional programs seeking external support (e.g. NSF, NIH, private foundations), this form must be submitted no later than the submission of ORSP's Checklist for Sponsored Programs Approval via E-Prop.